These Music Festivals Are Taking a BIG Stand Against Sexual Assault

As we approach the summer season, many of us are getting ready to see our favorite artists perform at music festivals. These festivals aren't just about music anymore — the accommodations and food offerings have become super luxe over the past decade, and public interest has exploded as use of social media has grown the visibility of such events. It's also largely about aesthetic, and people often plan what they're going to wear — from head to toe — way in advance. However, something that people are far less prone to talk about when it comes to these festivals is just how often sexual assault happens in the midst of the fun — but some organizers in the U.K. are looking to change that by taking a stand against the violence.

A public statement issued by 60 British music festivals on Friday clearly condemns sexual violence at their events, and has a solid outline for how they'll make their events safer. The statement has three key messages for attendees: zero tolerance to sexual assault, hands off unless consent, and don't be a bystander. These are great tenets for any public space to uphold, not just music festivals. They've even created a helpful GIF to reinforce these messages.

In the press statement, Renae Brown, Campaign Manager at the Association of Independent Festivals, said, "We are aiming to tackle these issues in both a sensitive and impactful way — pushing awareness of sexual safety to the fore, while ensuring all those working onsite are properly trained, and that U.K. festivals continue to provide the safest, securest and most enjoyable environment for their customers."

The statement also said that along with spreading awareness about their three key messages through festival websites and social channels, they're going to train staff and volunteers to handle sexual assault issues, provide confidential welfare services to any victims, and take a victim-led approach in the event of any incidents.

Though some organizers have previously attempted to make their events safer for attendees, like the women-only venue in Glastonbury titled The Sisterhood, this step is the biggest yet. Instead of making separate spaces for those who want to enjoy entertainment and be safe at the same time, this puts the onus on the festivals themselves to take responsibility for the safety of their attendees. People should be able to attend mainstream events without fear, and this is a good step forward.